India and Belgium Seek Defence Cooperation Agreement by Year-End

India and Belgium are working towards concluding a defence cooperation pact by year-end, enhancing military and industrial collaboration. Prime Minister Modi initiated a task force for this purpose during a meeting with the Belgian delegation, led by Princess Astrid. Belgian defence company John Cockerill is bidding for Indian light tank contracts, and both nations recognize the need for joint efforts amidst changing geopolitical landscapes.

India and Belgium are on the verge of finalizing a defence cooperation agreement by the end of this year, as indicated by Belgian Defence Minister Theo Francken. During a recent media briefing in New Delhi, he emphasized that the pact aims to strengthen collaborations between both nations’ armed forces and their defence industries.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has directed the creation of a task force to expedite the agreement’s finalization in both New Delhi and Brussels. This partnership represents a significant advancement in military cooperation, paving the way for enhanced industrial coordination.

The Belgian delegation, led by Princess Astrid, also includes Foreign Minister Maxime Prévot, who underscored the urgency of reinforcing ties between Belgium and India amid evolving geopolitical landscapes.

Francken noted the need for mutual learning and enhancement of defence capabilities, highlighting that Belgium is appointing a Defence Attaché in New Delhi to facilitate military and industrial communication.

Belgian defence firm John Cockerill Defence is actively participating in the tender for the Indian Army’s procurement of light tanks designed for high-altitude operations. Their collaboration with Indian company Larsen & Toubro aims to create locally assembled turrets for these tanks, showcasing Belgium’s commitment to strengthening India’s military resources.

Moreover, while discussing geopolitical challenges, Prévot acknowledged the importance of strategic autonomy in the defence sector and reiterated Belgium’s support for Ukraine amidst the ongoing conflict, while also clarifying that he respects India’s stance on the situation.

In summary, the prospective defence cooperation agreement between India and Belgium marks a critical step toward enhanced military and industrial collaboration. The establishment of a task force aims to expedite the agreement’s finalization, fostering better communication and mutual learning between the two nations. Furthermore, the focus on strategic autonomy highlights the evolving dynamics of global geopolitics.

Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com